Certain people living in Reading can take advantage of a free winter flu jab.

A vaccination for swine flu is expected soon. Before then people at risk of winter flu – including elderly and disabled residents – can have an injection protecting them from it.

Reading GP Dr Rod Smith said: “Common colds are frequently confused with flu but flu can be potentially life-threatening, particularly for those with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease.

“Those at greater risk of developing serious complications from flu should get themselves down to their local surgery as soon as possible to protect themselves from the virus in the months to come.”